How to Troubleshoot an AC That’s Not Turning On
Nobody enjoys dealing with the heat of the summer when their air conditioning system is not working properly. You may find yourself struggling to stay cool if your air conditioner (AC) is not turning on. Knowing how to troubleshoot your AC can help you get back to cool comfort without calling in a service professional.
Check Circuit Breaker
The first step to troubleshooting an AC that is not turning on is to check the circuit breaker. An AC requires a dedicated circuit that may be connected to a 20-amp or 30-amp circuit breaker and should be labeled “air conditioning” or “central air”. If the breaker has been tripped, change it to the “on” position. Wait a few minutes, and then begin the AC again. If the circuit trips a second time, you may be dealing with an electrical issue.
Check Thermostat Settings
The next step is to examine the thermostat settings. Your thermostat should be set to “cool” and the temperature should be set at least 5 to 10 degrees colder than the room temperature. Make sure the fan control is set to “auto” rather than “on”. If you have a programmable thermostat, ensure that the temperature display does not show “hold” or a time of day set incorrectly. Check for dirt and dust around the thermostat and clean it carefully using a soft cloth.
Check Condensation
The third step to troubleshooting an AC that’s not turning on is to check the condensation. If condensation is leaking from the unit, check the condensation line for clogs. If it is clogged, a diluted bleach solution or vinegar can be used to clean the line. If condensation continues to leak, contact a technician.
Check Refrigerant
The fourth step to troubleshooting an AC is to check the refrigerant. If the refrigerant is low, the AC won’t cool the air effectively. Refrigerant levels should be checked and monitored by a professional.
Check Compressor & Condenser
Finally, to troubleshoot an AC that’s not turning on, you should check the compressor and the condenser. Make sure the area around the compressor and condenser is clear of debris, including leaves and grass. Cleaning the area around the AC unit helps to ensure that the unit is able to take in air properly.
If these basic troubleshooting steps have not fixed your AC unit, it is time to bring in a professional AC repair technician. An AC technician can assess the system for faults and problems, and make any necessary repairs. A professional can determine if the AC is receiving enough power, if components need to be replaced, or if the refrigerant is too low. If you have an AC unit that is not turning on, be sure to contact a local reliable appliance repair service at (866) 311-8590 to get the issue resolved quickly.
AC Not Turning On: Manufacturer, Local Appliance Company, and HVAC Technician Recommendations
Proper AC maintenance is essential in keeping your system functioning properly, and it starts with prevention. Regular preventive action can help to avoid potential issues such as your AC not turning on. To keep your system running optimally, here are some top recommendations from manufacturers, local appliance companies, and HVAC technicians.
Check Outside Unit
The first step is to check the outside unit. Ensure that the unit is free of any debris or obstructions, as these can block air flow and prevent your AC from cycling. If you notice any dirt, leaves, or other objects blocking your outside unit, carefully remove them so that air can flow freely.
Change Your Filters
It is also important to change your filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, which can lead to your AC not turning on. Be sure to check your filters every month and replace them when necessary. It is also a good idea to purchase and keep extra filters on hand to minimize downtime.
Clean the Coils
Cleaning the coils of your AC system is another preventive action that you can take. This should be done at least twice a year by an HVAC technician. They can use a coil cleaning solution to clean the coils and reduce the risk of your system malfunctioning.
Inspect Electrical Components
Inspecting your AC’s electrical components is important to ensure that they are all in working order. If they are damaged or loose, they can prevent your AC from cycling on. You should have an HVAC technician check the electrical components of your system yearly.
Check the Refrigerant Levels
If your AC unit is low on refrigerant, that could be why it is not turning on. Refrigerant levels can drop for a number of reasons, including leaks. Have an HVAC technician inspect your unit to check the refrigerant levels and fix any leaks.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the best way to catch any small issues with your AC before they become major issues. Regular AC maintenance can also help to reduce your energy bills and extend the life of your system. Be sure to have your AC inspected and serviced by a qualified professional at least once a year.
Taking the time to perform regular preventive maintenance can help you to avoid potential issues like your AC not turning on. Ensure that your system is free of debris, that your filters are clean, and that your electrical components are in working order. You should also clean your coils and check your refrigerant levels. Finally, don’t forget to schedule regular maintenance with a qualified HVAC technician. Following these steps can help to ensure that your AC is running effectively and efficiently.
The Average Cost of Repairing a Non-Functioning Air Conditioner
If your air conditioner is no longer turning on, it’s important to know that this repair can be costly. On average, the repair cost for a non-functioning AC system can range between $200-$500, noting that prices have increased by 20% – this does not include installation costs.
One potential repair might include the replacement of an outdoor fan motor, which will cost an average of $200 in parts and labor. Costly repairs, such as the replacement of the entire compressor, can cost up to $800 in parts and labor.
These costs can vary significantly depending on the location, parts needed, and complexity of the repair. For specific details regarding repairs and installation, it’s recommended you call a local, reliable air conditioner repair service.
When selecting a repair service, doing some research in advance can go a long way. Check out their customer reviews, licensing, and any guarantees they offer. For those in California, it’s best to contact Local Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating at (866) 311-8590. They offer free estimates and provide quality, reliable services.
With any repair, it’s important to be mindful of your safety as well. If you’re not an experienced technician, it’s best to avoid DIYing your repairs, since it can be dangerous. Contacting a professional service is your best option when it comes to repairing a non-functioning AC system.
Why You Should Choose Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating
Are you looking for a local heating and air conditioning company in California? Then look no further than Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating. This family-owned business offers same-day service for appliance and HVAC repair, as well as installations.
Their highly trained technicians have five years of experience and are knowledgeable when it comes to air conditioning not turning on. Reliable offers fair and affordable pricing and is licensed and insured in the state of California. That is why their clients consistently come back for their reliable service.
All their repair services come with a 90-day warranty to ensure your satisfaction. Their prompt same-day services mean you don’t have to wait very long for the repair. You can trust Reliable’s experienced staff to provide you with the best service possible.
Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating offers reliable, same-day services, top-notch technicians, and excellent customer service. Don’t wait any longer and give them a call so they can help you with AC not turning on. You won’t regret it!
FAQ: How to Troubleshoot an AC That’s Not Turning On?
What could be causing my AC to not turn on?
The likely cause is a power problem. Check your breaker box to make sure all switches are on, and make sure the outlet works. If those are both good, you may be experiencing a problem with your thermostat or blower motor.
Is it easy to fix AC not turning on?
It all depends on the problem. If it’s just a power issue, it’s relatively simple to fix. However, if the problem is with the motor or thermostat, it can be tricky to troubleshoot.
How Can I Tell What the Problem Is?
You can troubleshoot your AC by checking: the current power, the wiring to the blower motor and thermostat, and the capacitors. If any of these are faulty, the AC won’t turn on.
Do I Need an Expert?
If your problem requires you to open the AC unit or check the wiring, it’s best to contact a professional.
If you have an AC that’s not turning on, contact Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 311-8590 for assistance.